Impact of Agroecological Methods on Aggregate Associated Carbon Fractions

Using agroecological methods such as biochar amendments, manure-based fertilizer, and leaving crop residue on field is known to add organic matter and carbon to the soil which in turn can lead to soil health improvement as well as changes in soil physical properties. The previously stated methods were used as treatments as well as a combination of each in a Colorado farm field. Post analysis soil physical tests were run to evaluate the aggregate fractionation, organic matter, water-stability, permanganate oxidizable carbon, and the carbon to nitrogen ratio of each aggregate fraction as well as range of macro- (2mm-6.3mm), meso- (.25mm-2mm), and micro-aggregates (<.25mm).